The State Government has doubled the amount of driving hours learner drivers must clock before they can sit their practical test.
In addition to the 50 hours logged driving experience now required, learner drivers must also pass a Hazard Perception Test and include at least five hours of night-time driving before they sit the test.
The system will change on October 9, and is designed to ensure learner drivers have greater driving experience before they attempt their PDA.
Currently learner drivers must complete 25 hours of logged driving before sitting the practical test, then another 25 hours before attempting the Hazard Perception Test.
The new system attempts to streamline the process, and instead requires a Hazard Perception Test to be completed before attempting the Practical Driving Assessment.
The new system:
Theory test
Begin to complete 50 hours of logged driving (minimum of five hours night-time driving). You must wait six months before you can apply to do your HPT, but you do not need to bring in your log book before you sit the HPT.
Hazard Perception Test
Finish 50 hours of logged driving (minimum of five hours night-time driving). You need to bring in your log book before you sit the PDA.
Practical Driving Assessment
Red P Plates
Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said changing the sequence would "reduce the complexity" of the licence process and align WA with other states.
"The State Government has listened to industry and community feedback about the provisional licence process and we will ensure applicants have greater driving experience and cognitive maturity when attempting their driving tests," she said.
"The provisional licence process has seen a reduction in road crashes involving novice drivers.
"It is hoped that the re-sequence will increase the current practical driving assessment pass rate, resulting in more assessment slots being vacant, which will reduce customer wait times for PDA availability."
The Department of Transport said existing learner's permit holders will automatically transfer to the new process from October 9, and a letter detailing the process would go out to those affected by the changes.